Short-Term Rental Tax in Washington (WA)
The state-level tax rate on short-term rentals in Washington is 6.5% , consisting of 6.5% sales tax and 0.0% lodging tax. Washington applies general sales and lodging taxes to STRs without STR-specific legislation. Major platforms like Airbnb collect state taxes automatically. With local taxes, the total rate in Seattle reaches 16.3%. STR operators must register with the state. Washington charges a 6.5% state sales tax on short-term rentals. No state lodging tax, but cities and counties impose local lodging taxes of 2-7% plus special purpose taxes. STR operators must register with WA DOR.
Annual Tax Estimate for Washington
The table below shows estimated annual tax obligations at different nightly rates, assuming 65% occupancy (237 nights/year). Estimates are shown for both the state-level rate and the highest local rate (Seattle).
| Nightly Rate | Gross Revenue | State Tax (6.5%) | Seattle Tax (16.3%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $100.00/night | $23,700 | $1,541 | $3,851 |
| $150.00/night | $35,550 | $2,311 | $5,777 |
| $200.00/night | $47,400 | $3,081 | $7,703 |
| $300.00/night | $71,100 | $4,622 | $11,554 |
| $500.00/night | $118,500 | $7,703 | $19,256 |
Estimates assume 65% occupancy. Actual tax may differ based on local exemptions, booking fees, and platform collection.
STR Tax Rates by City in Washington
Local taxes significantly impact the total STR tax burden in Washington. The table below shows combined state + local rates for 4 cities, sorted by total rate. The highest combined rate is 16.3% in Seattle.
| City | Local Tax | Total Rate | Tax on $200/night | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle | 9.8% | 16.3% | $32.50 | Very High | King County 2% + Seattle 7.75% combined lodging and convention center taxes. |
| Leavenworth | 5.0% | 11.5% | $23.00 | Moderate | Chelan County 2% + Leavenworth 3% lodging tax. Popular tourist town. |
| San Juan Islands | 4.0% | 10.5% | $21.00 | Moderate | San Juan County 2% + local 2% lodging tax. |
| Long Beach Peninsula | 4.0% | 10.5% | $21.00 | Moderate | Pacific County 2% + local 2% lodging tax. |
How Washington Compares to Other States
Below is a comparison of Washington with five states that have similar state-level STR tax rates. This comparison helps illustrate where Washington stands relative to other states in terms of tax burden, platform collection, and registration requirements.
| State | State Rate | Sales Tax | Lodging Tax | Platform Collects | Registration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington (WA) | 6.5% | 6.5% | 0.0% | Yes | Required |
| Kansas (KS) | 6.5% | 6.5% | 0.0% | Yes | Required |
| Nebraska (NE) | 6.5% | 5.5% | 1.0% | Yes | Required |
| Nevada (NV) | 6.8% | 6.8% | 0.0% | Yes | Required |
| Minnesota (MN) | 6.9% | 6.9% | 0.0% | Yes | Required |
| Florida (FL) | 6.0% | 6.0% | 0.0% | Yes | Required |
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington STR Taxes
What is the short-term rental tax rate in Washington in 2026?
The state-level tax rate on short-term rentals in Washington is 6.5%, consisting of 6.5% sales tax and 0.0% lodging tax. Local taxes can bring the total to 16.3% in cities like Seattle. At $200/night with 65% occupancy, the state-level tax alone is approximately $3,081 per year.
Does Airbnb collect STR taxes in Washington?
Yes. Airbnb, Vrbo collect state sales tax. However, local and county taxes may not be covered by platform collection. Always verify with your local tax authority what taxes your platform collects on your behalf.
Do I need to register my short-term rental in Washington?
Yes. Washington requires STR operators to register with the state. This typically includes obtaining a sales tax permit and/or lodging tax registration. Many cities and counties in Washington also require local STR permits or business licenses. Check with both state and local authorities for specific requirements.
What is the total STR tax rate in Seattle, Washington?
The total combined tax rate in Seattle is 16.3%, which includes the 6.5% state rate plus 9.8% in local taxes. King County 2% + Seattle 7.75% combined lodging and convention center taxes. At $200/night with 65% occupancy, this amounts to approximately $7,703 per year in taxes.
How much will I owe in STR taxes in Washington?
Your annual STR tax depends on your nightly rate, occupancy, and location. At the state level (6.5%), a property earning $200/night with 65% occupancy would owe approximately $3,081/year in state taxes alone. In Seattle, the total tax at the same rate would be approximately $7,703/year. Use our STR tax calculator for a customized estimate.
Calculate Your Washington STR Tax
Use our STR tax calculator to get a personalized estimate of your annual tax obligation in Washington. Enter your nightly rate and occupancy to see your projected state and local taxes, or browse all 50 states to compare STR tax rates across the country.